CRUISE OF THE PORPOISE. oQ] 



cordingly hauled into the wharf, and they commenced heaving her 

 down. The crew of the Vincennes assisted in these duties. Some 

 few dilEcnlties occurred, but by the uninterrupted and constant atten- 

 tion of all, the work was soon completed, and the brig again prepared 

 for sea. 



During this time the effect that the introduction of French wines 

 and brandies had had upon the habits as well as morals of the lower 

 orders, became very evident ; and to avert this evil influence from the 

 crews of both vessels became one of the most troublesome duties the 

 officers had to perform. So great is this annoyance, that I think it 

 sufficient to prevent the making of any repairs but what can be done 

 at anchor in the harbour, and will ere long, I fear, prevent this port 

 from being the resort of the whaling fleet, or even of casual vessels. 

 For this reason I would recommend Lahaina and Hilo Bay, to those 

 vessels which only require refreshment, as being the preferable stop- 

 ping-places. 



During this time, observations were had for the rating of our chro- 

 nometers, and many other duties were performed, besides finally 

 settling up the accounts of the squadron, which occupied us until 

 the 3d of April, when the Yincennes left the harbou.r and anchored 

 in the outer roads, leaving the Porpoise to follow as soon after as 

 possible. 



Although I have mentioned various productions of the soil of the 

 Hawaiian Islands, in describing the several districts that were visited, 

 yet it may be as well to record in this place, those we found indi- 

 genous to the islands. They consist of the following important 

 plants. 



Taro (Caladium esculentum), of which they have thirteen varieties : 

 ipulemo akea is that most cultivated. It is planted at all seasons of 

 the year, usually in patches which are also used as fish-ponds. All 

 parts of the taro are used : the leaves form, when cooked, what is 

 termed "luau," and from this the natives give the name of luau to 

 every thing cooked with them : as luau pig, or luau dog. The taro 

 of the upland is the same kind as that grown in the water. 



The yam (Dioscorea), uhi of the natives, is not so plentiful nor 

 so good, at this group, as we found it on the islands in the South 

 Pacific. 



Arrow-root (Tacca) : this already begins to form an article of 

 commerce, and might be much improved, both by cultivation and 

 in its preparation, which ought to be taught to the natives. It must 



VOL. IV. 76 



